Ahead of 2017 ITTF World Cup: I need a coach Aruna Quadri pleads

Despite putting Nigeria on the world map at several occasions, Africa’s highest ranked table tennis player, Aruna Quadri is pleading for support for him to hire a coach prosecute the 2017 ITTF World Cup holding in Liege, Belgium later in the year.

Quadri who has consistently been inking his name in the annals of African table tennis history as the first African to make it to the quarterfinal of the Olympic Games as well as the first player from the continent to make it to the semifinal of the ITTF World Tour.

Being his second consecutive appearance at the ITTF World Cup, a pained Quadri said: “I am actually getting used to playing without a coach because I have no sponsor. Since I have no sponsor in order to have a coach, I just have to play alone. I can say that a coach is very, very important but since I have no support, I just have to keep on playing alone.”

“Actually, if I am not ready to play in the Bulgaria Open, I wouldn’t come along. But I am here because I am ready to play without a coach. If I had a coach, it would be even better of course,” he added.

Quadri attributed her victory against Japan’s Yuto Kizukuri in the round of 16 of Bulgaria Open as sheer luck.

“I think I have been really lucky in this tournament. It was my best match I was 6-3 down in the last set but luckily I won. I gained some confidence from the round of 16 match. I have something really important happening here and I am very happy,” he said.

He however, pleaded with his fans over the disappointment at Nigeria Open.

“I cannot actually say that Nigeria Open was a big disappointment for my fans but at the same time it is one of the things that normally happen in sports. For me it is meant to buckle me up. I thought it is possible to do so much better and anything can truly happen,” Quadri said.

It would be recalled that the Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung promised to support Aruna Quadri for the World Cup but the 2014 ITTF Star Player is still waiting on the minister to fulfill his promises.

Return our passports now! Journalists cry out to UK High Commission

Three Nigerian sports journalists who were denied the opportunity to cover the just ended 16th IAAF World Championships in London by the United Kingdom High Commission in Lagos want their international passport returned to them immediately.
The journalists Messrs Esan Oludare of Complete Sports, Tunde Eludini of Premium Times and Charles Ogundiya of New Telegraph also appeal to the international sporting community to strip Britain of any hosting rights granted it as well as stop future award of such rights.
“It is unbelievable that the United Kingdom High Commission could toy with the emotion and passion of Nigerians who have been denied adequate and proper coverage of the championships,” Esan who is the editor of Complete Sports and has covered eight editions of the championships said.
“Some of us applied as early as the first week of June while I applied on July 4, 2017.The Local Organising Committee for the championships advised us in an email that we should apply not later than July 7, 2017 so that we could get our visas issued before the 29th of July.
“The Championships held from August 4 to 13. As I am talking to you now, the message on my visa application as tracked on the UK Visa Application Centre in Nigeria (Lagos - Ikeja) website this (Wednesday August 16, 2017) morning is that my application is still waiting for a decision to be taken.
“It reads thus: Your application is now with UK Visas & Immigration for a decision. If this is not ridiculous, I wonder what that message connotes, coming a clear three days after the championships ended.
Ogundiya on his part want Britain to be stripped of all rights to host international championships and Games as he hinted that the journalists could consider legal options if the passports are either tampered with and/or are not returned on time to enable them use for other international competitions.
Ogundiya who writes for New Telegraph said: “It is obvious they are not ready to accommodate people who have gone through strict security checks before they were issued accreditation cards. And for crying out loud we are journalists who have legitimate rights to cover the championships in London.
“The United Kingdom agreed not to deny people who have been accredited for the championships the right to participate either as athletes, officials or journalists before they were granted the hosting right for event. It is crystal clear now that they fooled the IAAF.
“'The return leg of the Nigeria versus Cameroun 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier is in early September in Yaounde and now we cannot plan towards covering it because the UK High Commission is still waiting to take a decision on our application for visa for a championships that ended few days ago. We hope the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs will take up this matter as it is not only a slap on Nigeria but a total disregard for us as human beings.”

I’m indebted to Lagos fans – Omar Assar

For the support he has always enjoyed whenever he is playing in Lagos, Egypt’s Omar Assar believes the fans played a crucial role in his triumph at the ITTF Nigeria Open ‘Lagos 2017’.

The Egyptian who made history as the first player to win the men’s singles title thrice as well as unbeaten in all his participation in the tournament is willing to return to Lagos for the competition.

To claim the title in 2017, Assar beat India’s Sarthak Gandhi in the final 4-0 (11-6, 13-11, 11-6, 11-8). With the win, Assar maintains his perfect record in Lagos, having now won the tournament on each occasion he has played.

“I feel very wonderful wining this competition again. This competition is very special for me because it being hosted in Lagos. The fans in Lagos have been very supportive in me claiming the title. So I need to ensure I play very well because many people are waiting to see me winning the title. From the start of the tournament, there have been a lot of improvements among the Nigerians and Egyptians, while I am particularly thrilled with the performance of the Indians,” said Omar Assar.

Assar, who is Aruna Quadri’s partner in men’s doubles, believes the Nigerian would return stronger following his round of 16 exit. “Aruna Quadri and others played really well. But I am always proud whenever I and Aruna Quadri play in the final of any major event because it helps to promote the sport in Africa. Aruna Quadri is a very good player and I am sure next he will make a comeback and have better competition next time,” he said.

Dina Meshref made sure Egypt doubled down on the titles, defeating Russia’s Olga Kulikova in the final of the Women’s Singles. It was a 4-0 (11-4, 16-14, 12-10, 11-6) victory for Meshref, who dropped only two games during the event. It was the Egyptian’s third attempt at the title, and it turned out to be third time’s lucky, having made the quarterfinal in 2014, and final in 2015.

As Africa’s number one player, she kept continental pride and made sure the title stayed on home soil for the first time in the event’s history.

"Playing in any top European league is my dream" - Hadedeji

Playing in any top European league is my dream"- Hadedeji

"I learnt a lot playing against Stuttgart"- Hadedeji

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"I learnt a lot playing against Stuttgart"- Hadedeji

Mayungbe Prince Hadedeji is a Nigerian footballer, born and brought up in Lagos. Hadedeji made his way into Germany about five years ago where he plays football as a professional. He has got the potentials, and he seeks more opportunities to play and experience top-flight football in any part of Europe.

How long have you been in Germany and how is life over there? 

Well, I have been in Germany for about five years now and I can say that it has been good all along. Life here is quite organised, it is a society that allows and enable you to become what you want to be provided you have your papers as a foreigner and you understand the language.

Can you mention the clubs you have played for in Germany? 

Since I arrived here, I have been opportune to play for a number of Professional amateur clubs while I still chase the top dream. I have played for T.KS.Z LUDWISBURG,FC MARBACH, and TV PFLUGFELDEN which is my present club.

Where is your preferred position? 

I play outside right or outside left position. I can also play from the attacking midfield role. 

Have you always been a forward? 

I think I will say I am more comfortable in the outside right or left the position. In the club's I played, I've always maintained the role so I enjoy playing from the sides.

Where do you see yourself in the next coming years?

It is the dream of every footballer to attain top Professional level, the ultimate for me is to one day play in any premier Division in Europe. I know this dream will come true very soon, it's just a matter of time.

How competitive will you say the league you currently play is? 

The professional Amateur league here I'll say is far above other European countries in my opinion. The level of organised is topnotch, the team want to win and win well. You just have to be the best here to qualify to the next level without favouritism.

What will you say is the difference between Nigerian football and German football?

There are a lot of differences. In Nigeria, football is more physical, and the facilities are not always available. Look at the pitches in Nigeria, they do not encourage good football. But here in Germany, I can say that you will learn good movement, tactics and you are exposed to sound coaching. The playing turf is also football friendly and the other equipment you need to develop are available.

Which match will you describe as the most difficult so far?

Without thinking too much, I will say the match my team played against Stuttgart. As you know the Stuttgart side is a top division team, so playing against them was quite tough. Although we lost but I will say I learnt alot from that match.

Have you had any trial recently in any part of Europe?

Yes, I was in France some months back for a trial at AS Pagny. All things being equal there is a move in the pipeline that will happen soon, once it is all clear it will be made public.

Any dream of playing in the national team of Nigeria?

Of course yes. It is the dream of every player to see himself in the Green and White colours representing Nigeria. I once had the opportunity when I got called for the up in the junior cadre but then I didn't make it, but I know my time shall come. So if I get an invite, I'll jump at it.

Who is your role model or which sports icon has influenced you the most? 

Is that your favourite sports personality? Without thinking twice, my role model is Thierry Henry. I love the way he used to play in his days, I still watch some of his clips to learn and improve daily in my game. And for my the person who has influenced my life the most, I'll say my dad. He has always been there to encourage and support me in any step I take toward my career.

If you were not playing football, what would you have been doing?

 There something I love too much which is being a DJ. I like music so much and I still try my hands on it whenever I have the time to. 

Which team do you support?

 Arsenal FC has always been my favourite football club because of the kind of football they play. I will also say love good football, so any club that delivers that, I like such club.

Dou you have a nick name?

Some of my team mates here call me Prince Boateng. 

Eagles Set to devour the Squirrels as Nigeria takes on Benin Republic in CHAN 2018 Qualifier

In any contest between the Eagle and the squirrel in the jungle, the bitting and scratching attack mode of the squirrel is definitely a no match for the vision,swiftness and mastery of the Eagles.

This aptly the describe the scenario of any contest between Nigeria and Benin Republic it should always end in a "no contest" using all verifiable parameters.

But this is football,it's not mathematics and because there is no definite formula to calculate the outcome of a match , The actors have only 90 minutes to decide their own fate as "anything can happen " and 'upsets' is a word synonymous with football.

This will be the setting at the mattew  kerekou stadium by 4pm today as the Squirrel of Benin takes on the Home based super Eagles of Nigeria, in the first leg of the 2nd round of the 2018 CHAN qualifier.

At stake is the ticket to the next African Championship otherwise known as CHAN billed to takes place in Kenya.

The competition organised by CAF exclusive for players plying their professional football trade in their country.

Arnaud Acakpo,A beninoise sports journalist with JIPS sports, believe the Squirrel has what is takes to upset the Eagles over  two legs because the squirrel have really prepared for the competition ' the team has been together  for a long time ,having played seven friendly matches prior to this game against top African side like Ghana,Mali,Burkina Faso ,Egypt and they were to hold their own having narrowly lost two out of the seven  friendly matches played.

" I believe they have a chance against the Super Eagles '.

He went further ,"the fact that the squirrel edged out Togo in the first round of the quafier gives the the needed desire to move on. Confidence is high in the squad and the mood in the camp is to beat Nigeria and make a statement with the match"

The cotonou based journalist continued 'The home based Super Eagles are playing their first competitive match and they barely camped for three weeks ,so am really expecting an upset because our boys are quick on the ball and mentally ready for this match "
He predicted a comprehensive 3-1 bashing of the super Eagles.

Meanwhile the team coordinator of the Super Eagle ,Patrick pascal believe the Eagles have been adequately prepared for this match,and the boys are highly self  motivated to grab the chance provided by this platform to "break into" the main super Eagles squad.

"The boys are ready to take the chance and to prove their mettle and it's a big chance for them to impress and break into the main super Eagles team this is enough motivation for the boys to go out there and beat the squirrel.

The CHAN is a platform that will help their career so they can't afford to miss out of the Kenya party come next year
he concludes.

The coach of the side ,salisu Yusuf says they are only out here in cotonou to make Nigeria proud and which the team is ready to do by coming out victorious on sunday and finish the job in kano by next weekend.

"We love the people and the hospitality shown to us ,it's like a home game for us from to the hotel to the stadium But the most  important thing for us is to make our country proud, we are ready because have what it takes" the unassuming coach concluded.

The die is cast, and the battle line is drawn . The fans will be on the edge of their seat as both teams have only 90 minutes to work the talk while Beninoise will be expecting their first victory ever in against Nigeria while the Super Eagles will love to continue Nigeria dominance and love to extend unbeaten record against the Squirrel to 13 games .

It's ten victories for Nigeria while Benin Republic can only muster two draws since our first meeting 40 years ago when the Super Eagles defeated Benin Republic 7-0 in 1977 in a friendly held in Nigeria and to the last defeat 1-0 at the 2010 AFCON.

The gap between African countries has really reduced over the years but the Super Eagles remain the favorite but can the Squirrel really avoid being devoured ,?

That's a question that will be answered after 90 minutes plus added time of hostilities as the Super Eagles seek to make a mince meat out of the squirrel.

Aruna Quadri predicts a tough 2017 ITTF Challenge Nigeria open

Aruna Quadri predicts a tough challenge as ITTF Challenge serves off in Lagos

Aruna Quadri has declared that the 2017 seamaster ITTF challenge Nigeria Open will be one of the most competitive ever.

The competition,serves off on August 9th and will end on August 13th,parades the best of the finest world's ping pongers at the Molade Okoya Thomas hall of the Teslim Balogun stadium.

Speaking at the venue of the competition in lagos,the Africa champion said that every year the competition is getting bigger so as the stars on parade.

"It's going to be the toughest Lagos open ever judging by the caliber of players on parade,from the round of 32 there will be no walkover,every match is going to be difficult. "

However,the 2014 star player of the year who celebrate his birthday on the opening day of the competition, believe he has what it takes to be the first Nigerian to win the competition and give himself a befitting 28th year birthday gifts.

I have prepared so well, and am hoping on God to crown my effort and am hoping to gift myself a birthday gift on the 13th of August,the last day of the competition and be crowned the winner.

The Lagos open is in 5th edition and as Aruna quadri is hoping to be the first Nigerian has been to win it.

He is ranked 29th in the world,the highest ranked Africa and the number one seeded player for the games while his arch rival,Egyptian Omar Assar ranked 64th.

The implication of this is that both can only meet in the finals.

Aruna defeated asar to become Africa champion at Agadir in morrocco earlier in the year and his performance at the India open makes him the hot favorite to cart away the prestigious men single top crown and cash prize of 42,000 dollars.

Organisers name Kanu, Asare as judges

A former Super Eagles skipper Nwankwo Kanu, is among the three judges to officiate the final of the first ever National Freestyle Football Championship in Nigeria slated for July 23 at the Car park of the Ikeja City Mall.

The event being staged by Feet ‘n’ Tricks International Limited has GAC Motors, a product of Guangzhou Automobile Group Motor Company Limited and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) as major sponsors.
He was an active member of the Super Eagles from 1994 to 2010, and eventually went on to captain the Senior National team of Nigeria. He has since retired from playing football.

Kanu was a member of the Nigeria’s team that won gold at the Atlanta Olympic Games. In 1993, after a notable performance at the U-17 World Championships, he was signed by Dutch Eredivisie AFC Ajax. He made his debut a year after and scored 25 goals in 54 appearances.

A former European Champion, Daniel Mikolaj, who has consistently positioned himself as one of the Top 8 freestyle football athletes in the world in the past five years, is the head of the judges.
Another African, Joel Asare, who is a two-time Ghanaian champion, will also be one of the judges. Asare represented Ghana in Tokyo, Japan at the Red Bull Street world finals 2013.
The CEO of Feet n Tricks, O’dyke Nzewi, said all arrangements have been concluded to stage a remarkable show on Sunday in Lagos

All is set for Copa Rayados as Midas seal Another milestone deal in Greece

 

The Participation of Midas football academy at the upcoming Copa Royados,houston texas,received a boost as the management of Midas football consult,the owners of midas football academy has secure a partnership aggrement with a top sports management firm in Olympiacos greece.

The memorandum of understanding which was signed between the management of the companies will ensure exchange programs between the two firms,ranging from kits,equipments,facilities and personnel as well as ease trans -border travelling logistics

The deal will afford Midas football Academy players an opportunity to take their growth and development of their to Europe where the chances of realising their dream of becoming a professional footballer. 

According to the CEO of midas football consult,Bayonle Arashi,the agreement is a reflection of the hard work put into the job by the management and the quest to give the best of exposure for the students of the academy is the motivating favor that will always spurs us to go a mile extra.

In his words "The deal is a reflection of hardwork put into the job and the fact that we want to see more of our players transfer from the academy direct to European clubs makes us to go the extra mile in making the agreement a reality".

The Astute football Administrator also posited that the deal is a consolidation on the visits of Premier League Africa to Midas football Academy camp in Lagos earlier in the year and call on parents to enroll their talented ward in the academy as the academy have what it's take to develop and expose their talent.

 

 "The best time to be part us is now and am calling parents to Register their ward now and make the maximum out of the opportunities that come with this new deal,as this is part of the gains of the Premier League Africa visit to our camp in Lagos earlier in the year". He told www.midasfootballacademy.com

Meanwhile the preparation for the Copa Royados is going on smoothly as the necessary documentations and confirmation of players are on going,the good news is that the window to be a part of the competition is still open interested players to be a part of the team.

  

I Love to Play for Arsenal... Alika

If you are looking for the next big thing in Nigeria football, since the exit of the magical skills of jayjay okocha and the intelligence of kanu Nwakwo,from the scene Look no further as we present to you Alika Daniel.

Alika as he is fondly called by his peers,combines the raw talent of Lionel mesi,the pentrating runs of Eden hazard and assertiveness of Luca modric,no wonder he loves to put the number 10 jersey,an exclusive reserve of legends.

He can play from the right wing and the left wing ,behind the striker or through the middle as his passes always come with the killer's instinct,  he Enjoys taking on defenders as well shooting the ball hard with precision if that is best option on the field of play.

His eyes for goals is legendary, he is as dangerous when backing the opponent's goal post as when he is facing it.

His penetrating runs is an asset which will take him far in this trade providence has chosen for it

He enjoys playing the ball on the ground no wonder he loves to play in the EPL for Arsenal fc.

" I love to play for Arsenal because of the way they use the ball on the ground and the fact that it's a good platform that gives talented youthful player an opportunity to grow and achieve their potential.

He has this to say about Midas football academy,just after 6 months he joined

"The academy has really help my Game a whole lot especially in the act of goal scoring and it has really helped my confidence on the ball and I also want to appreciate good job of the management "

No wonder he always love to explore on the field of play and never hesitate to unleash his tricks each time the opportunity present itself,this is evident in the goal he scored against the COD of lagos,he benefited from a loose 25 yard from the goal post and he fires a well measured lob over the goalkeeper to the delight of spectators and this provoke applause even from the opposing team.

"I have scored some beautiful in the past but the one against COD was my favorite because it's a deliberate lob to measure the height of the goalkeeper when i saw that he is off his line already,
i watched with the ball going in, with delight ,as the goalie tried to lift himself to parry the ball the ball keeps  rising until it founds the back of the net.

According to his coach, he is the working type, 'he gives his best in training and put his best effort in games,he is player you can trust with the ball ,coach Emeka Njoku opined ,and his team mates always look up to to get the job done he concluded.

The 18 year old cool,calm ,collected footballer who hates not to score after 90 minutes on the pitch shares his secret for success with www.midasfootballacademy.com 'I always work hard in training and look onto God for favor on match days and he has never disappointed me" .

Stephen Keshi 1962-2016 : Reward for Our Heroes past in Sports

FROM HON. GODFREY GAYA

Exactly this day in 2016, a greatNigerian sports man passed on to the great beyond. Stephen OkochukwuKeshi died in Benin, Edo state at the unripe age of 54. Keshi was a phenomenon. He recorded many ‘firsts’ in his chosen career as a footballer. Right from his days at St. Gregory in Lagos, Keshi was a distinguished footballer. He was the captain of his school. He led the school severally to win the Principals cup in Lagos. It was the most competitive football even amongst secondary school in those days in Lagos and provided able opportunities for young talents to be discovered for stardom. No wonder, Keshiand his co-travellers then easily found their ways to major clubs in Lagos those days. Clubs like Stationary Stores, ACB, NEPA Football Club all of which were in Lagos made the Principal Cup competition a hunting trip found the advent of Stephen Keshi and teammates in the late 70’s and early 80’s.
Expectedly, Keshi was a trailblazer. He became a successful footballer within the shores of Nigeria. Was the first to leave the shores of Nigeria to play outside. He moved to Ivory Coast to play professionally there.He left there for Belgium to also become the first of his generation to play in Europe from Africa. He was the Nigeriannational football team captain for 10 years. He was then till date the longest serving captain of The Eagles and he’s arguably the most successful. For during his reign as captain, Nigeria won the 1994 Nations cup in Tunisia and qualified to world cup for the first in the USA also in 1994. It was during his reign as captain that Nigeria was the most highly rated African team in the world. During that period, Nigeria rose to the fifth ranked team in the world, a record that no African team has beaten. Due to Keshi’s leadership attributes and the respect he commanded from his team mates and officials, Keshi was simply revered to as ‘The Boss’. After his glorious football playing days, Keshi took steps into football coaching. A profession he left an indelible mark. He succeeded in Togo, taking them to the pinnacle of football by their qualification to the world cup in 2006. As the true patriot Keshi was he desired to come home and serve his fatherland. He was by popular demand named the coach of the Super Eagles in 2012. Heel made no joke of this by qualifying Nigeria to the edition of the AFCON in South Africa, 2013. There again, The Boss made history by winning the AFCON the second time for Nigeria and becoming the first Nigerian to win the AFCON championship both on the captain and also as the coach. Keshi died this day in 2016, serving Nigeria. At the announcement of his death, the present Minister of Sports and Youth Development announced to mourning Nigerians that Keshi was a“government property” and that all will be done by the government of the day to immortalize Stephen Keshi. In fact in his word he vowed that his government will never forget the contribution of Keshito National growth and will do everything possible to reward his labour of love and services to the Fatherland. Shockingly days after the declaration by the minister, Keshi’s  burial was funded fully by his family and friends while person from the federal government deemed it fit to attend, not even the minister of Sports and Youth Development despite his clearly advertised utterances immediately after Keshi’sdeath.Keshi was left alone even before his final laying to rest in his grave. Similarly in the same month, same city, coach ShuaibuAhmadu also passed on. Ahmadulike Keshi served his country meritoriously winning laurels and Applause for the super Eagles. Ahmadu was called upon several times on a salvagemissionfor Nigerian football and like Keshi died for Nigeria and was denied by Nigeria.
I have chosen to use only Keshi and Ahmadu’sexamples because this write-up makes the first remembrance anniversary, looking back before them several Nigerian Sports men and women have severally being abandoned by the government after toiling and making sacrifices for Nigeria. It is the word of the Holy books that command that the labourer deservetheir wages. This divine injunction is hardly respected in Nigeria particularly to sports men and women. The number of Nigerian Sports persons that have died and have been forgotten these are too numerous for this write-up to list. The irony is the fact that’s our ‘anthem’ on the ‘pledge’ are the ‘oaths’we make every day. The words captured there are supposed to be sacrosanct. Words that should not be confused for whatever reason. Unfortunately here we say everyday in our anthem that “ the labour of all heroes past shall  never be in vain!” For me these are mere high-sounding words full of sound and fury signifying absolutely nothing. In these times oaths are not respected by government. Here governments don’t keep promises. They fail you the moment you are no longer in position to defend yourselfmuch less of being dead.Once you are six feet under only your immediate family remember you. Pan here’s are forgotten, their families are left at the mercies of kind hearted individuals while government suddenly takes cover and your sacrificial contributions to your National are not remembered nor appreciated.
The neglect of our past Sports Heroes is imparting a negative toll on the youths of this country. The younger ones have noticed with dismay and disappointment the lack of honour afforded to our fallen Sports Heroes. It is therefore not surprising that there are many Nigerian youths outside the shores of this country who do not wish to associate with Nigeria. The fact that they have full Nigerian blood in them nor withstanding. They would rather opt to wear the colours of other nations who they believe will immortalize them after their playing days are over. In their present England U-20 team at the FIFA youth World Cup hostedby South Korea,parades six “Nigerians” in the England team of 23 players. It is sad that these young promising lads have chosen to adore the colours of England because they have lost faith in the ability of their fatherland to recognise them thereafter. This drift is there in athletics, basketball and all major sporting events.
Lagos and Rivers state both celebrated 50 years of statehood within the federation called Nigeria. I carefully looked into the list of “sons and daughters” honoured for their immense contribution and state development by these states and was utterly embarrassed to not even witness even a single name associated with sports, I used to think that Teslian Thunder Balogun a moniker associated with sports heroism was a Lagosian.

Pitch Maintenance in Nigeria : Matters Arising by Sheu Dikko

Sheu Dikko,the hardworking Chairman of the League Management Company the body that is responsible for the organization of the Nigeria Professional Football League ,NPFL,bare his mind on the maintenance of pitches across the various  NPFL stadia.

The Nigeria Football Federation 2nd vice president deposited his thought on the subject in the Nigeria Football Support Platform, NFSP, a whatsaap group dedicated to matters as they affect the game of Football in Nigeria.

Olusola Adebayo,hereby present the excerpt :

Indeed, I always believe that maintaining our pitches and indeed stadiums has to be done in the most professional way and must be handled by professional firms that are paid only on successful delivery rather than in most cases handled by employees whom do get their salaries and allowances regardless of weather they do the job well or not. This believe arrises from a personal experience I had around 2001 or so when I used to promote a team in Kaduna - Kaduna Professionals and we were to play a match at the ABS and the pitch was not good. So I brought money to get the pitch fixed and instead of getting a thank you from the man in charge of the pitch I got insults that I got involved with his job and he has already requested for money from Abuja to fix the pitch and now the money might not come. The issue here is that the man actually allowed the pitch to messed up so he can get a budget approved to fix it... this thinking is still the major problem with our pitches as most of those in charge don't care and only wants budget for repair. So the way forward on this is to think out of the box and face a new direction.

Indeed, one of the major take always from our recent visit and technical agreement with the Morrocan Football authorities is that we were able to see what they do to keep their pitches always top notch and in top shape across the country and we would be working to deploy the same system here.

1. Firstly in Morocco they had set up private companies that specialized in only the construction, installation, refurbishment and maintenance of football pitches (and some Golf pitches).

2. The companies work with Government at all levels and the football authorities to maintain the football pitches across the county from the top division to even the amateur teams...

3. For construction and or refurbishment of pitches the money for this is sourced through the Government (ministries of interior, youth, sports, works and finance all support the project) and when the pitches are installed they come with a 5 year maintenance contract (and they are maintained 24/7).

4. The football authorities also secure sponsors and partners as well as development funds to pay for the maintenance of pitches for professional clubs and some amateur pitches... the professional clubs pitches are almost all grass and or a mixture of grass and synthetic as we have in some top European clubs while the amateur pitches are mostly synthetic (but the top grade ones).

5. Through this model the Moroccan football industry has succeeded in ensuring their pitches are always in good shape and has created huge job opportunities across the country with thousands of people employed by this specialist companies working to keep their pitches in top shape. Indeed Morroco started this program since 1986 and everything is sourced in Morocco from the grass to the expertise (as they have trained expertise across across board and have developed perfect seedlings that suite their environment). So everything is 100% Moroccon. They even go to Europe to install pitches...

5. Accordingly, we have had a meeting with the best company in Morocco working for the FA and the Ministry of sport and handling over 150 pitches across Morocco including all the top pitches were the national team and the top clubs play and have agreed with them to come to Nigeria and set up so we can see how to create this type of specialist Industry in Nigeria to ensure the professional installation and maintenance of atleast the key football pitches available in nigeria for a start (both grass and synthetic). They would go round the country and evaluate the pitches and make recommendations and we take it from there. They would also work to set up units across the country that would be trained accordingly.

6. We intend to find the money for this project through a combination of the owners of the stadiums (which are mostly government) and finding some sponsors to support the project especially in the long term maintenance contracts. Maintenance is the key to the success of this project and thus must be funded correctly.

7. Hopefully, if this project works we would solve this problem once and for all.

8. Indeed, the CEO of this best football pitch construction  and maintenance company in Morocco we met with  is a woman and even the stadium manager of their national stadium in Rabat is also a woman and they are absolutely on top of their game.. this clearly shows his institutionalized the specialist pitch maintenance program has reached in Morocco and how far they have come.. it's really a delight to see this really...

FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT: SOUTH WEST STATES FOOTBALL FORUM TAKES GIANT STEP AS OONI OF IFE UNVEILS OODUA YOUTH LEAGUE TROPHY IN STYLE........

It was all fun at the Palace of the Ooni of Ife Kingdom as the South West States Football Forum blaze the trail and rolled out plans to take football development in the region to the next level.

The highly colourful ceremony  which was hosted by the Ooni of Ife Kingdom, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja ll had in attendance top sports (football)  administrators, coaches, former internationals, and stakeholders from across the country, especially from the South West States.

Speaking at the event, Former Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Federation who doubles as the Chairman of the Osun State Football Association, Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi said the idea of having a common front in the area of football development in the South West was raised by the Ooni of Ife Kingdom, Oba Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja ll.

Former National team Coach, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, who spoke on the gains ahead called for total commitments.

Former Board Member of the Nigeria Football Federation who is also a Member the House of Representatives, Alhaja Ayo Omidiran stressed the importance of women involvement.

The 1st Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation who is also the Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Barrister Seyi Akinwumi stressed the need for genuine love and unity among people from the region.

The Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association who is also a Board Member of the Nigeria Football Federation, Otunba  Dele Ajayi while thanking God and all the stakeholders for making the event a huge success, said all hands are on deck as the region targets lasting legacies.

High point of the event was the UNVEILING of the OODUA YOUTH LEAGUE TROPHY by His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja ll.

The Royal Father who could not hide his joy and happiness commended the organisers of the event saying it will go a long way in bringing back the lost glory of the region in the world of football as well as foster strong unity and love.

Oba Ogunwusi who called on all sons and daughters of the Yoruba race and the country at large to live in harmony at all times, warned against hypocrisy and backbiting.

The Traditional Ruler who expressed his absolute support for the project to take football development to the next level in the region UNVEILED the OODUA YOUTH LEAGUE TROPHY to the GLORY of GOD and the BENEFITS of MANKIND.

The State of Osun (Osun State) was announced as the 1st beneficiary of the NFF secretariats to be built in all states of the federation just as the former Chairman of the Ondo State Football Agency, Mr Akin Akinbobola emerged as the Coordinating Secretary of the South West States Football Forum.

Members of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club led by its President General, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo were on hand to entertain the crowd and add glamour to the event.

The South West States Football Forum led by Chairmen of each state football association is poised to take football development in the region to the next level with programmes which include the OODUA YOUTH LEAGUE, WOMEN'S LEAGUE and the WORLD CUP amongst others.

The immediate past Chairman of the Ondo State Football Agency, Prince Dapo Ajibade who commended the initiative expressed his beliefs that all the dreams will come true.

The General Manager of Shooting Stars Sports Club,  Rasheed Sodiya Balogun said the move has placed the region above others in terms of vision for development.

The event also had in attendance President of the Nigeria Football Referees Association, Chief Tade Azeez, President of the Nigeria Women League, Aisha Falode, Board Member of the Nigeria Women League, Kemi Adesanya, former board member of the NFA, Elder Dickson Adejube, immediate past Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in Ondo State, Dayo Awude and former Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association, Dele Ogungbemi, former Green Eagles and Super Eagles players, Felix Owolabi and Mutiu Adepoju to mention only but few.

No doubt, this positive move to take football development to the next level in the South Western States of Nigeria will open more doors of good things to come now and the nearest future.

Akwa United Extend Unbeaten Run ___Play Goalless with MFM in Lagos

Ten man Akwa United extended their unbeaten run in the Nigeria Professional Football League NPFL to four matches after playing a goalless draw with Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries MFM at the Agege stadium in Lagos on Sunday.

Stephen Odey failed to increase his goal tally when he missed a penalty in the 33rd minute after Kodjovi Dadzie handled the ball inside the box.

Aremu Afeez was sent off in the 86th minute of the game after a second yellow card following a late tackle.

The matchday 20 fixture was a reverse of the last match of the first stanza in which Akwa United won MFM in Uyo last month.

Akwa United's new signings Ojo Olorunleke, Harmony Ikande and Gabriel Okechukwu all made their debut in the match but the top scorers in the league, Stephen Odey of MFM and Alhassan Ibrahim of Akwa United caught fan's attention.

MFM needed a win to return to the top of the league while the Promise Keepers were targeting victory to break into the top four but the two teams could not find a way pass each other's defense despite a spirited performance.

Ifeani Ifeanyi and Aremu Afeez who dominated the midfield battle were both booked and the duo will miss Akwa United's home game against ABS of Ilorin.

Sikiru Olatunbosun, Stephen Odey and Adegboyega Adekunle all had chances to score for the home side but their efforts were well saved by Olo Olorunleke who had a wonderful game on his debut.

Coach Abdu Maikaba's team also had opportunity of their own Harmony Ikande, Gabriel Okechukwu and Alhassan Ibrahim were guilty on many occasions.

In the end a goalless draw was a fair result for both sides. With the result, MFM moved to 34 points while Akwa United have 30 points from 20 matches and occupy 6th position on the table.

Akwa United will next play ABS of Ilorin at the Nest of Champions in Uyo.

Ten-man Rivers United subdue Nasarawa United as NFL returns

Rivers United overcame Nasarawa United 1-0 in a Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) game decided on Saturday at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt.

Ayo Saka scored the winner, an enthralling team goal that left the Nasarawa United goalkeeper, Suraj Ayeleso floundering.

Saka, making only his second start for the club after his mid-season switch from Sunshine Stars but made the decisive contribution in the match day 20 clash at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium.

The midfielder latched onto a superb pass from John Odumegwu who had been slipped through by a deft bit skill by Obomate Frederick before firing past the Nasarawa United goalkeeper, Suraj Ayeleso in the 38th minute.

Five minutes earlier, Rivers United had been reduced to ten men after captain, Festus Austine was sent off for a second bookable offence for handling the ball.

Rather than let their heads drop, the hosts stepped on the accelerator and deservedly took the lead through Saka’s supreme finish.

Odumegwu should have doubled their advantage shortly before half time but shot straight at Ayeleso from point blank range.

The second half failed to match the first in terms of entertainment value as United held out for three vital points.

After the game, technical manager of Rivers United, Stanley Eguma and head coach of Nasarawa United, Kabir Dogo both addressed the media in a joint press conference covered by our official website, www.riversunitedfc.com.ng. (audio files have been attached).

Rivers United moved up two place on the log as a result of the win and now occupy 11th place on the log with 27 points from 20 matches while Nasarawa United remain in ninth place with 27 points from 20 matches.

Match statistics
Rivers United: Sunday Rotimi,  Ifeanyi Nweke,  Zoumana Doumbia,  Emeka Atuloma, Festus Austine, Ayobami Asekunuwo, Obomate Frederick, (Onoriode Odah 80'), Emeka Ogbugh, Guy Kuemian (Markson Ojobo 60'), Ayo Saka,  John Odumegwu (Ifeanyi Okoye 86').

Substitutes not Used: Femi Thomas, Chiwendu Ali, Israel Daniel and Yusuf Jaiyeola.

Nasarawa United: Suraj Ayeleso,  Yinka  Onaolapo (Abubakar Abdullahi 78’),  Emmanuel Makama, Eugene Obi, Seun Sogbeso, Jide Williams, Abdulrahman Bashir (Fabiyi Tayo 75'), Ishaya Anyu,  Ocheme Edoh (Philip Auta 57’),  Douglas Achiv and Adamu Hassan.

Substitutes not Used: Danlami Umar, Manga Mohammed, Abu Ahmed and Aminu Kadiri.

Yellow cards: Abdulrahman Bashir 49', Sunday Rotimi 25', Festus Austine 25' and 31'. 
Red card: Festus Austine: 33’
Goal: Ayo Saka 38'

Match report: Rivers United 1-0 Niger Tornadoes

Guy Kuemian netted the only goal of an underwhelming Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) contest as Rivers United beat Niger Tornadoes 1-0 in Port Harcourt on Sunday. 

The attacker volleyed home a Lukman Mohammed’s cross after the hosts sprang Tornadoes’ offside trap in the 22nd minute. 

Victory for the pride of Rivers moves them up to third place on the NPFL standings with seven points while Tornadoes remain bottom of the log with a solitary point from their first three matches. 

Sunday’s display by the ‘Pride of Rivers’ was anything but convincing as they had to rely on several heroic stops from goalkeeper, Sunday Rotimi in the second half to hold out for what could turn out to be potentially crucial points in the home strait of the season. 

In truth, United made life complicated for themselves by fluffing a plethora of chances when cold-bloodedness and precision by their attackers could have ended the game as a contest long before the midway stage of the second half. 

Nzube Anaezemba had a shot smothered by the Tornadoes goalkeeper, Aliko Mustapha in the ninth minute before Lukman Mohammed caused despair amongst the home faithful by firing tamely when left unmarked in the visitors’ penalty area. 

Anaezemba had another crack at goal in the 20th minute but the inspired Aliko, who had a barnstorming game saved easily. 

Unrelenting pressure eventually yielded fruit in the 22nd minute as Kuemian fired home an unstoppable volley with Tornadoes failing horribly in their attempt to play a high line. 

Chances were few and far between for the rest of a half that failed to hit the heights as both side struggled for sustained levels of fluency in their passing and movement. 

Tornadoes improved dramatically after the break and were extremely unfortunate not to level matters on more than one occasion.

Their best moments arrived in the 55th minute when Ikefe Andrew’s free kick forced Rotimi into an unconventional save and two minutes later when Wakili Musa’s brilliant volley from the resulting corner missed the target by inches. 

United continued to create chances but continued to fritter them away with shocking regularity. 

Bernard Ovoke smacked a voley against the cross bar in the 61st minute while Aliko produced top drawer saves to deny Mohammed and substitute, Maduabuchi Okereke as the game drew to a close. 

United’s technical manager, Stanley Eguma was less than impressed with his side’s display and rued the many missed which could have made the win more emphatic. 

“It was a very difficult game for us. We never underrated Tornadoes because it is a game of football. 

“We planned to win but unfortunately, we did not have a very good game. 

“We won but we were not able to string the passes (together the way we usually do). 

“My players were jittery and we lost the midfield battles to our opponents and it made them have the upper hand,” he said at the post match press conference. 

Tornadoes coach, Bala Abubakar spoke about a game plan which was carried out to perfection against storied opposition.

“Rivers United is a big team representing Nigeria on the continent. 

“Our team is seventy percent new and gradually, we are trying to stabilize the team. 

“We came here (to Port Harcourt) with a game plan. 

“We knew it would be difficult but we gave a very good account of ourselves,” he said.

Rivers United next travel to Nnewi to face FC Ifeanyiubah while Tornadoes next have a home fixture against Wikki Tourists. 

Both games will be played on Wednesday. 

Match stats 

Rivers United: Sunday Rotimi, Ifeanyi Nweke, Wassa Gabriel, Emeka Atuloma, Festus Austine, Ayobami Asekunowo, Nzube Anaezemba (Weli Christian 82’), Lukman Mohammed, Guy Kuemian (Emeka Ogbugh 57’), Esosa Igbinoba and Ovoke Bernard (Maduabuchi Okereke 68’).  

Substitutes not used: Femi Thomas, Zoumana Doumbia, Olalekan Gabriel and Godbless Asamoah. 

Niger Tornadoes: Mustapha Aliko, Abiodun Afolabi (Idele Ikhide Ibrahim 50’), Husseini Isah, Bolaji Adeyemo, Ikefe Evans Andrew, Sunday Akinmoladun, Ajoku Blessing Chidebere, Owello Solomon (Ibrahim Babawo Abubakar 54’), Ebenezer Odeyemi, Ifeanyi Okoye and Wakili Musa Abdullahi. 

Substitutes not used: Terkaa Melai, Bashar Usman, Attach Christian , Isyaku Iliyasu, Ammeh and Wilfred Angel. 

Yellow cards 

Rivers United: Ayobami Asekunowo (24’) and Gabriel Wassa (86’).

Niger Tornadoes: Bolaji Adeyemi (23’), Ebenezer Odeyemi (62’) and Chidiebere Ajoku (88’). 

Red cards: Nil

Goals: Kuemian (22’)

Bolaji, Famuditi claim Kogi United, Confluence Queens Player of the Season Gong

Micheal Bolaji, Oluwakemi Famuditi of Kogi United and Confluence Queens Football Clubs have emerged the Most Valuable Players of the season for their outstanding performances in the outgone season.

At the second edition of the award ceremony organized by the clubs on Saturday in Lokoja, Kogi United's fast improving striker, Ibrahim Enesi Sanni won the Talent of the Year Award while Confluence Queens' creative midfielder, Amao Basheerat won the same award.

Captain of the Confluence state's club, Ismail Mayaki retained the Most Discipline Player award while Super Falcons' defender Okpalla Maureen won the similar prize for the Queens.

Earlier in a remark, chairman of the clubs, Mallam Abdul Sule disclosed that the award was organized to commend both players and members of staffs that have distinguished themselves with optimum commitment and dedication, to spur them in giving more just as to charge others to raise the bar in the coming football season.

Kit Manager for Confluence Queens, Salihu Abdullahi Dan won the award for Best Staff of the Year among the officials of both clubs, while the Team Managers of Kogi United and Confluence Queens, Ameh Henry and Oluwatosin Olorunleke Ojo as well as Media Manager of Kogi United, Wale Mustapha were honored with an Award of Recognition for their outstanding contributions to successful outing of their clubs in the outgone season.

Other recipients of the award includes the Kogi State Commissioner of Sports and Youth Development, Comrade Arome Adoji, Special Adviser to Kogi State Governor on Youth Empowerment, Sports and Students' Affairs, Honorable Deola Eseyin, Financial Secretary of Nigeria Referees Association, Elder Daniel Olokor, Chairman, Kogi State Football Association, Alhaji Umar Suleiman Isah, his secretary, Mr Augustine Ogunmola, Kogi State Chairman of Referees Council, Mallam Ibraheems Adams Adebayo among others.

MATCH PREVIEW: Gombe United VS Remo Stars

Remo Stars Football Club return to action on Wednesday against Gombe United Football Club in Match Day 2 of the Nigeria Professional Football League at the Pantami Stadium.

It's the first game on the road for the Sky Blue Stars as both teams had earlier met at the Nigeria National League, NNL Super 4 in December 2016.

The Sky Blue Stars defeated Gombe United 3-1 on penalties after both teams played out a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes.

Going into this encounter Captain, Victor Mbaoma has indicated that him and his teammates are not under any pressure in getting a result but instead they want a result for themselves and make a statement.

Speaking with RSFC Media, Mbaoma disclosed that the team isn't under pressure to win on Wednesday but they will play to win.

"We have to respect our opponent by playing and defending well. We are not under any pressure at all but we will try our best possible to win."

"We won against them in the NNL Super 4 and we can replicate such performance when we play them again on Wednesday."

"We lost our first game at home but that won't affect us from playing our game to win and we will be successful at the end of the game in Gombe by God's grace".

The Sky Blue Stars lost 1-2 at home in the first game in the NPFL against Plateau United in Sagamu on Sunday

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